Crook and District League
IT was honours even when the Barney derby ended in a 2-2 draw on Saturday.
It was Glaxo Rangers’ turn to host Barnard Castle FC at Manor Farm and the game got under way after a slight delay while referee and both coaches discussed a Covid issue relating to one of the players.
When the game did kick off, Glaxo were out of the blocks quickly and forcing Barney’s keeper Olly Robinson into a smart save.
However, as the half wore on, Castle began to press and were unlucky not to take the lead when Phil Merryweather’s headed effort from a Josh Bousfield corner was ruled out for an infringement.
It proved only a temporary reprieve for Glaxo as Ben Clarke gave Castle the lead shortly after.
Rangers pulled level after being awarded a throw-in level with Rangers’ 18-yard area which, on another day, would have been given as a free-kick the other way after a meaty challenge on Tom Merryweather.
From the throw-in, Tom Wood’s deflected shot gave Robinson no chance.
The game continued to be a keenly contested affair with Rob Dixon adding a second for Castle and Harrison Saunders scoring Rangers’ other goal.
Rangers now have four points from their four games, while Castle, who began the day on -3 having been penalised for not fulfilling a fixture, are still in negative figures having played three.
Evenwood Town are still searching for their first home win of the league campaign.
League leaders Willington proved much the sharper and secured a 4-0 win.
On Saturday, Barnard Castle play Middlestone Moor for the third time in four weeks, this time in the first round of the Weardale Charity Cup. Glaxo and Evenwood have the weekend off.
Wear Valley Sunday League
THE dale sides drew a blank in both points and goals on Sunday morning.
In a tight encounter, Gainford Cross Keys were pipped 1-0 by Willington Black Horse.
Leaders Middlestone Moor put four past Toft Hill Three Tuns to consolidate their place at the top, while Leeholme WMC, in second, won 3-0 at home to West Auckland Sports Bar.
This coming Sunday, Toft Hill entertain Gainford, while Sports Bar host Middlestone Moor.
Darlington Sunday Morning Invitation League
THERE were mixed fortunes for the dale’s two sides in the Darlington league.
After a free week, Staindrop Wheatsheaf made it a winning return, taking three points thanks to a 5-2 home win against Stillington The Royal.
Harrison Saunders hit a hat-trick and Jamie McDougall scored twice for Staindrop.
Unfortunately for Middleton Wanderers, the upper dale side returned home pointless after losing out by the odd goal of nine after visiting Firth Moor.
